Two years ago, the Digital Services Act (DSA) entered into force. The DSA protects your fundamental rights online by regulating online services such as social media platforms, marketplaces, app stores, and online travel and accommodation services. Its goal has been to ensure a safer digital space by addressing issues like addictive design, illegal content, manipulative tactics, and more.
Since February 2024, the DSA applies to most platforms in the EU, except micro and small enterprises. Enforcement is shared between national authorities (Digital Services Coordinators) and the European Commission. The Commission oversees the largest platforms.
To ensure compliance, the Commission has opened several investigations. In some cases, they led platforms to make concrete changes. Some investigations are still ongoing. For example, the Commission recently launched an investigation into X and its deployment of Grok and extended its ongoing investigation into X’s recommender systems. It has also launched an investigation into Shein for its addictive design, lack of transparency and sale of illegal products.
In another case, the Commission preliminarily found TikTok’s addictive design in breach of the DSA. When this happens, the platform can defend itself. It can examine the investigation files and reply in writing before any final decision is taken. Large platforms that do not comply with the DSA may face fines of up to 6% of their global annual turnover. They may also be required to take corrective measures.
Through measures like the DSA, the EU is shaping Europe’s digital future. It is supporting, funding and regulating new technologies with a goal to strengthen democracy and make Europe more competitive and technologically independent.
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